Sustainable food production

Dalarna offers a stable and investable environment for sustainable food production, built on secure access to land, water and energy, high food safety standards and established industrial processing capacity. Through strong regional collaboration and clear strategic direction, the region supports investments across primary production, value-added processing and circular food systems that strengthen national and European food security.

Food production and processing play a central role in Dalarna’s economy and smart specialisation strategy. The regional ambition is to increase food production through innovation and collaboration, while promoting sustainability and long-term growth throughout the county. Increased capacity in both primary production and processing is seen as a key contribution to Sweden’s overall food supply resilience.

Production, processing and scale

Dalarna hosts several nationally and internationally recognised food producers, including Leksandsbröd, Orkla, Spendrups, Dr. Schär, Nordic Trout and Älvdalslax. Large-scale actors are complemented by innovative SMEs, local bakeries and small-scale breweries that contribute to diversity, resilience and destination-based food experiences. Together, they form a complete value chain – from agriculture and aquaculture to advanced processing and branded consumer products.

The region has good conditions to increase primary production, particularly in areas such as arable farming and water-based food systems. Access to agricultural land, clean water and a favourable climate for certain crops and aquaculture create opportunities for expansion aligned with national food strategies and sustainability targets.

Circular systems and innovation

Future competitiveness in Dalarna’s food sector is driven by innovation and circular solutions. Regional strategies, the food roadmap and coordinated governance provide a predictable framework for long-term investment. Innovation initiatives are often facilitated through Dalarna Science Park, where startups, established companies and research actors collaborate on projects related to food innovation, resource efficiency and new business models.

Particular potential lies in the reuse of residual streams, surplus heat and by-products from food production and manufacturing industries. These circular solutions reduce climate impact, lower production costs and enable new value creation across sectors, including energy, materials and feed.

Food, tourism and place-based value

Food production in Dalarna is closely linked to the region’s visitor economy. Strong brands such as Leksandsbröd and Skedvi Bröd, together with local breweries and culinary experiences, contribute to place identity and experience tourism. This connection between production, processing and tourism enhances brand value and supports scalable, experience-based food concepts with export potential.

Through coordinated regional collaboration, access to natural resources and a strong innovation ecosystem, Dalarna offers a stable and forward-looking investment environment for sustainable food production and processing – from primary production to circular, high-value food systems.